Chambana Sun

Illinois men's gymnastics athletes Preston Ngai and Garrett Schooley have been recognized with Academic All-District honors by the College Sports Communicators. This marks the first time both athletes have received this distinction.

To qualify for this recognition, nominees must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.50 and be at least sophomores in both academic and athletic standing. Additionally, they must rank within the top 75 in an event within their division according to Road to Nationals rankings or have competed at their divisional national championship event.

Preston Ngai, majoring in computer science, became a two-time All-American during his second season with the Fighting Illini program in 2025. He won the all-around at the NCAA Championships Qualifiers and placed fourth on pommel horse and in the all-around at the NCAA Championships, earning All-America status. Ngai, from Elk Grove, California, participated in all 11 meets for Illinois in 2025, including both days of the Winter Cup and Big Ten Championships. He received Academic All-Big Ten accolades for the first time this winter and has claimed four event titles during his collegiate career.

Garrett Schooley became a regular-season All-American on vault in 2025 and finished third on vault at the NCAA Championships. The Sarasota, Florida native secured five vault titles throughout the 2025 season while competing in 10 meets, including both days of the Big Ten Championships. Schooley is majoring in recreation, sport, and tourism and was named an Academic All-Big Ten honoree for the first time this winter.